Michael Binger Biography

What would you do if you were armed with a Bachelor of Science in Physics from NCSU, a Master of Science in Physics from NCSU, a Bachelor of Science in Math from NCSU, and a PhD in Theoretical Physics from Stanford?

We’re not sure about you, but for the majority of folks around the UltimateBet office, inventing time travel would top the list. Aside from the obvious challenges associated with getting a hold of some plutonium and a De Lorean, the overall invention process should be relatively easy.

So we were a little surprised when we first got to know Michael Binger, the online poker player with all those fancy physics-related letters after his name.

Why wasn’t this poker player who now calls Las Vegas home hanging out in his lab, working on a modern-day flux capacitor like every other physicist?

We were about to ask Binger that very question when we he reminded us of his ridiculously impressive showings on the world poker circuit.

$4 million in 2006 for a 3rd place finish in the Main Event of the World Series of Poker. A third place finish in the 2007 World Series of Poker, which netted him close to $300,000. Another $317,280 for first place in the 2008 Five-Star World Classic at Bellagio Hotel Casino. A handsome $125,730 for a first place finish in the 2008 LA Poker Classic. And, most recently, $123,840 after taking first place in Event #12 of the 2009 Aussie Millions.

Yeah, we know. Impressive. Here’s a quick look at how Michael Binger got to where he is today.

How did you become a professional poker pro?
I discovered poker in 2001 while in grad school at Stanford. I started playing in the cardrooms in the SF bay area. Took 15 months off school to play poker full time from 2002-2003. Went back to school and played poker part time until I finished my PhD in April 2006.

Did you struggle a lot at the beginning or were you a success right away?
Once I started taking the game seriously and reading and studying, I began winning consistently at limit hold ‘em. It took a lot longer to become a winning No Limit Hold’em and tournament player.

What style of play do you use at the table?
Overall I’d say I am a solid tight aggressive player. However, sometimes depending on my table and such I will be very loose aggressive.

Are you a better cash game player or tournament player?
I used to be more of a cash game player, but in the past two years I have much better results in tournaments.

What do you consider the most significant differences are between online and brick and mortar play from a strategic point of view?
Keeping your cool playing online because just a few minutes of tilty clicks can cost you a lot. Also, keeping your patience in brick and mortar casinos can be hard compared to online because you get far fewer hands.

Who are your greatest role models and why?
My parents and family. And Albert Einstein because he was a thoughtful and deep thinker in many areas outside of science.

What do you think you'll be doing in 20 years time?
Doing research in any of the following: physics, math, other science, sustainable development and renewable energy.

What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
Humility. Perseverance. Respect. Understanding.

What is the best piece of advice someone has given you?
Never whistle while you piss. Meaning focus on one thing at a time fully.

What is the one thing you'd like to do before you die?
Save the world.